What observers say
“The average happiness score for Canadians has been declining recently, more so than in almost all other countries,” stated Christopher Barrington-Leigh, a key contributor to the World Happiness Report 2026. This statement encapsulates the concerning trend observed in Canada, which has dropped to 25th place in the latest report, a significant decline from its previous rankings.
Finland, on the other hand, continues to shine as the happiest country in the world for the ninth consecutive year. This remarkable achievement underscores the stability and quality of life enjoyed by its citizens. Jan-Emmanuel De Neve, another contributor to the report, noted, “We think this is due to the quality of their social life and the stability they currently enjoy.” This highlights the importance of social connections in determining overall happiness.
The report, which is based on responses from approximately 100,000 people across 140 countries and territories, reveals troubling trends among youth. There has been a significant decrease in happiness among individuals under 25 in Canada, the United States, Australia, and New Zealand over the past decade. Barrington-Leigh pointed out that “those who use social media more are less happy,” suggesting a direct correlation between social media usage and declining well-being.
In stark contrast, Costa Rica has made a remarkable leap in the rankings, entering the top five and securing the 4th position, up from 23rd in 2023. This shift illustrates a growing recognition of the factors contributing to happiness in various regions, particularly in Central America.
Canada’s happiness index has seen a decline, with a score of 6.589 out of 10, while Quebec, in a more favorable position, ranks 5th with a score of 7.255 out of 10. Despite this, the overall trend for Canada is troubling, particularly for the youth, who have experienced a decrease in their happiness score by 1.138 since 2011. This decline places Canada among the three countries with the most significant decrease in happiness among young people.
Afghanistan remains at the bottom of the happiness rankings, identified as the unhappiest country in the world. The report emphasizes that social connections and community quality play a central role in overall well-being, a factor that is increasingly critical in today’s digital age.
As the World Happiness Report continues to evolve, it will be essential to monitor these trends and their implications for societies worldwide. The next expected developments will likely focus on addressing the root causes of declining happiness, particularly among younger generations, and exploring ways to enhance social connections in an increasingly digital world.
